ICE is Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It is an agency of the U.S. government. Its mission is to enforce immigration laws. ICE arrests immigrants who do not comply with the law.
Initially, in order to arrive in the U.S., it is necessary to complete different procedures such as passport and visa applications, which are essential documents to be able to enter the U.S. territory; without these, no person will be allowed to enter legally.
Depending on the type of visa you have acquired, the length of time you can stay in the U.S. legally varies, since each one grants a different period of time.
Reasons why ICE arrests immigrants
ICE can detain an immigrant only for specific reasons.
The first and most common is that the immigrant is in the country without legal authorization.
For example, if you crossed the border illegally or fell out of status.
Another reason is to have a deportation order in effect.
They can also arrest immigrants who have committed crimes.
This includes felonies and some misdemeanors.
In addition, ICE acts against those who violate the conditions of their visa.
For example, if they work without permission or if they remain in the country after the expiration of their visa.
Detentions in courts and other places
Recently, ICE also makes arrests in immigration courts.
This is part of a strategy to speed up the processes. However, this practice has been criticized for affecting legal rights and due process.
ICE can detain an immigrant on the street, at home or in the office.
It only requires evidence or reasonable suspicion that the person is violating immigration law. It does not always require a prior arrest warrant.
Rights of immigrant detainees
When ICE arrests, the person has rights.
You may ask for a lawyer.
You are not required to testify without an attorney present.
You can also request hearings to defend your immigration status.
It is important to know that being arrested does not mean immediate deportation.
There is a legal process that may include appeals or requests for protection.
Advice for immigrants
To avoid problems, it is vital to keep your documents in order.
Avoiding situations that attract ICE’s attention also helps.
In case of arrest, contacting a specialized lawyer is essential.
Thus, the right to due process is better protected.
This article was originally published in Nueva News.
Filed under: Reasons why ICE arrests immigrants
